For the first time
since the New 52 started, we get a glimpse of Barbara's life during
the three years she was paralyzed, and while it is understandable
that she went to a dark place soon after her injury, the real kicker
of the story is that she actually never left it, even after her
recovery. The way Simone teases readers with that typical moment
when the hero's values kick in at the last second -but surprises
everyone by actually not making it happen- is proof of her talent.

This move does not
turn Barbara into an evil woman, or makes her seem out of character;
it actually shows how human she is, flaws and all. Ed Benes and
Daniel Sampere do a nice job with consistent artwork that Ulises
Arreola makes even more seamless with his colors. The only objection
with the story has more to do with the crossover itself than
anything else; having Joker everywhere, attacking Batman and his
allies all at the same time makes "Death of the Family" look like a
poor remake of "Night of the Owls."